Genealogy Resources For Asian American/Pacific Islander Heritage And Jewish American Heritage Month This May

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AAPI Heritage & Jewish American Heritage Month graphic

During May, the contributions, history, and culture of both Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and Jewish Americans are recognized and celebrated. Several federal agencies, like the Library of Congress, the National Archives and Records Administration, and the National Gallery of Art, are collaborating to offer in-person and virtual exhibits, lectures, and films that highlight these groups.

The first proclamation for the recognition of Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage was issued in 1978 and was to set aside a week during the first 10 days of May as Asian/Pacific Heritage Week. In 1992, PL 102-450 designated May as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month.

According to the Library of Congress, "May was chosen to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869. The majority of the workers who laid the tracks were Chinese immigrants."

The national celebration of Jewish American heritage began when President Carter established Jewish Heritage Week in 1980. In 2006, President George W. Bush proclaimed May to be Jewish American Heritage Month as has each subsequent President. 

For anyone interested in genealogical research into their Jewish or Asian and Pacific Islander heritage, there are lots of resources available online. Check out these sites for more information:

Jewish Genealogy Resources

AAPI Genealogy Resources 

Check out the Birmingham Public Library's calendar to see what programs celebrate AAPI Heritage Month. 

By Mary Beth Newbill | Librarian, Southern History Department, Central Library  

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